Spain, Balearics, Canaries

BALEARICS

CANARY ISLES & SPAIN

The Balearic Islands offer easy sailing, sunshine, spectacular anchorages and plenty of culture to experience ashore

Expect typical Mediterranean conditions in southern Spain – ideal in spring and autumn, but either lively or flat calm in summer. It can often get stormy off the Balearics in October, but there are always plenty of places to seek shelter.

Cruising the rugged and diverse Canary Islands is great in the UK winter or summer; the islands are fascinating by boat and inland, with world-class marinas and challenging sailing if you want it; the famous wind acceleration zones between the islands can catch out the unwary.

The beautiful Balearics have long been a favoured destination for British holidaymakers, and the islands of Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza and Formentera are at the heart of Spain’s charter industry, with many of the country’s charter companies based there.

Located approximately 60 miles from the Spanish mainland, the Balearics are arguably best appreciated by yacht. Away from the bustle and crowds of the main tourist resorts there are literally hundreds of small bays and anchorages to enjoy. It’s not quite the wilderness, as plenty of other boaters will be enjoying the scenery too, but the vibe is one of tranquilty and relaxation. That’s unless you happen to moor in one of Ibiza Town’s marinas, from where you can sample the vibrant nightlife which has made the island (in)famous.

Alternatively, find your way to one of the 360 beaches, explore caves and 8,000-yearold archaeological sites, or discover the Cabrera Archipelago Maritime National Park to commune with whales and dolphins.

Palma in Majorca is a sophisticated place to get into the swing of things before exploring the stunning coastline, with coves and harbours surrounding these islands.

The island of Minorca is generally more laidback than Majorca. If you choose to charter in the area, and if you get a chance to sail to the north of the island, make sure you don’t miss the characterful whitewashed fishing village of Fornells.

A long way further south, off the coast of Morocco, lie the Canary Islands – most notably Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Due to their latitude, the sailing season in the Canaries extends throughout the year. That makes it the perfect destination for a winter break, and still only a few hours from the UK. Just be aware that strong winds and swells can make for exciting sailing.

Spain’s other cruising regions include Catalonia, Valencia, Andalusia, and Murcia on the Mediterranean side, and the rugged Galician coast on the Atlantic side.

CAnaries

Holidaymakers have been beating a path to Spain for sun, sea and sailing for donkeys’ years. As a result there are frequent and low-cost flights from all parts of the UK, when restrictions allow, to all the major charter destinations, while experienced charter operators make connections from airport to yacht.